The start of free agency was over one week ago, so most of the top names who hit the market have found their new homes. While this is the case, there are still some solid players who remain available for the taking.
However, in a recent article for Daily Faceoff, Matt Larkin listed former Boston Bruins forward James van Riemsdyk as the best remaining free agent.
It is understandable that van Riemsdyk is being viewed as the top free agent left. After a down 2022-23 season with the Philadelphia Flyers, he bounced back nicely with the Bruins last campaign. He provided solid secondary offensive production, recording 11 goals, 38 points, and a plus-7 rating in 71 games. While he ended this past season with a cold streak, he picked up during the playoffs, recording five points in 11 games.
Given the fact that van Riemsdyk can still produce well in a top-nine role, there is apparent reason to believe that he will find a new home before the start of the season. Teams looking for more depth scoring could take a flier on him, especially if he is willing to sign a cheap one-year deal.
Could the Bruins consider bringing him back, though? When looking at their current roster, it is fair to argue that they would benefit by adding one more veteran winger to their depth. Time will tell on that front, but he should land elsewhere, if not in Boston.
